Virginia law § 18.2-357.1 defines and penalizes commercial sex trafficking, including soliciting or recruiting for prostitution or unlawful sexual acts. Penalties escalate based on the use of force, intimidation, or if minors are involved, with separate felony classifications for each violation. The section emphasizes that each act constitutes a separate offense.
It involves soliciting, recruiting, or encouraging someone to engage in prostitution or unlawful sexual acts with the intent to profit financially.
Penalties range from Class 5 to Class 3 felonies, depending on the circumstances, such as use of force or involvement of minors.
Yes, violating the law with a person under 18 results in a more severe, Class 3 felony charge.
Yes, Virginia Code § 18.2-357.1 is active, while § 18.2-358 has been repealed.